Definition

A groin lump is localized swelling in the groin area. It may be firm or soft, tender or not painful at all.

Images:

Alternative Names

Lump in the groin

Considerations

All groin lumps should be examined by your health care provider.

Common Causes

  • Hernia (usually a soft, large bulge in the groin on one or both sides)
    • A hernia is bigger when standing and recedes when lying down. It can often be pushed back with the finger (see inguinal hernia and femoral hernia).
  • Enlarged lymph glands in the groin area
  • A local infection
  • Generalized drug reaction
  • Allergic reaction
  • A viral infection
  • A  malignancy
  • Trauma to the groin area
  • Sexually-transmitted diseases

Home Care

Follow the therapy prescribed by your health care provider.

Call your health care provider if

  • There are groin lumps that stay more than 3 weeks
  • An unexplained groin lump is present

What to expect at your health care provider's office

The medical history will be obtained and a physical examination performed.

Medical history questions documenting your symptom in detail may include:

  • Time pattern
    • When did the lump develop?
    • Did it occur suddenly or develop slowly?
    • Is it always present or does it come and go?
  • Location
    • Is it on one side or both?
    • How big is it?
  • Other
    • Does it get larger when coughing or straining?
    • What is the sexual history (detailed questions may be asked)?
    • Has there been any unusual physical activity recently?
    • What other symptoms are also present?

The physical examination may include palpation (touch) of lymph nodes in the groin and elsewhere. A genital or pelvic examination may be performed. Diagnostic tests that may be performed include:

Intervention:

Treatments may include antibiotics. For a hernia, surgery may be recommended.

Review Date:11/2/2005
Reviewed By: Kenneth Wener, M.D., Division of Infectious Diseases, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.